Meet Argus
Our first autonomous boat. Designed, built and tested by students in Trondheim – from the first sketch to open water.
One boat. Every skill we have.
Argus is our first autonomous surface vessel – a boat that can find its way on the water with no one at the wheel.
It is also where everything we learn comes together. Hulls, electronics, sensors, control systems and software all have to work as one. Every part is designed, built and tested by students, which gives our members real hands-on experience in maritime autonomy.
What makes Argus work
A closer look at the hardware that lets Argus see, think and move on its own.
- 01
Twin hulls
A catamaran design gives Argus a wide and stable platform for sensors and electronics.
- 02
3D LiDAR
Scans the area around the boat to find docks, boats and other obstacles.
- 03
Stereo camera
Two lenses give Argus depth vision, so it can see and measure what is in front of it.
- 04
Dual GNSS antennas
Two satellite antennas tell Argus exactly where it is and which way it is pointing.
- 05
Waterproof electronics case
The computer, power and wiring are kept safe and dry inside one sealed case.
- 06
Electric thrusters
Thrusters under the hulls push the boat forward and let it turn on the spot.
From workshop to water
From the first hull in the workshop to launch day in the harbour – this is how Argus came to life.
Shaping the hulls
Work starts in the workshop. The first hull slowly takes shape.
Sanding and finishing
Long days of sanding, filling and painting to make the hulls smooth and watertight.
First time on the water
The first float test in the harbour. Does it float? It does.
Putting it all together
Hulls, frame and electronics are joined together on the dock for the first time.
Launch day
Argus goes into the water with all sensors on board – ready for testing.
Life on the dock
What we want to achieve
A fully autonomous boat
Build and test our first maritime platform that can navigate and do tasks on its own.
Stronger partnerships
Work closer with the Department of Engineering Cybernetics and our industry partners.
A base for the future
Lay the foundation for new projects in maritime autonomy, research and innovation.
Follow Argus from shore
Our GUI team built an interface for Argus. Take a look – or join us and help shape what comes next.